Weird & Unusual Attractions in Kemerovo, Kemerovskaya Oblast’, Russia
1. Dacha-Museum of T. G. Shevchenko
A unique museum dedicated to the famous Ukrainian poet and artist Taras Shevchenko, featuring a collection of his artworks and personal items, including a life-sized statue made entirely of matches.
- Unusual Architecture: The museum is built in the form of a dacha (cottage), making it an interesting and unique attraction.
- Match Statue: The life-sized statue made entirely of matches is a rare sight that attracts many visitors.
- Personal Items: A collection of personal items and artworks by Shevchenko provides insight into his life and work.
2. House with Chimaeras
An enchanting house decorated with concrete sculptures of mythical chimeras, dragons, and other fantastical creatures.
- Concrete Sculptures: The detailed concrete sculptures cover every inch of the house, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.
- Fantastical Creatures: The wide variety of mythical creatures create an otherworldly atmosphere that is unlike any other attraction in Kemerovo.
- Artist's Workshop: The house was the workshop and home of a local artist, giving visitors insight into the creative process.
3. Polevskoy Mineralogy Museum
A museum dedicated to minerals and gems, featuring one of the world's largest collections of fluorite specimens.
- Fluorite Collection: The extensive collection of fluorite specimens showcases the mineral in various shapes, sizes, and colors.
- Interactive Exhibits: Interactive exhibits allow visitors to learn about minerals and gems in an engaging and interactive way.
- Rare Minerals: The museum houses many rare minerals, providing a fascinating look at the geology of the region.
4. Bridge of Lovers
A bridge in the shape of a heart, where lovers come to seal their love with a lock on the railing.
- Symbolic Heart Shape: The heart-shaped bridge is a romantic and symbolic attraction for couples.
- Lock Tradition: Visitors can attach a lock to the railing, symbolizing their eternal love.
- Scenic Location: The bridge offers a beautiful view of the surrounding nature, making it a perfect spot for photographs.
5. Ammunition Hill
An unusual park dedicated to the history of war, featuring a variety of military vehicles and artillery pieces.
- Military Vehicles: Visitors can explore a collection of tanks, armored personnel carriers, and other military vehicles.
- Artillery Pieces: The park features a variety of artillery pieces, including howitzers, mortars, and anti-aircraft guns.
- Historical Context: The park provides historical context for the role of ammunition in wars, making it an educational experience as well.
6. Lavra Museum-Reserve
A complex of churches and monasteries dating back to the 19th century, with an underground museum dedicated to the history of the region.
- Historical Buildings: The well-preserved buildings offer a glimpse into the past and architectural styles of the time.
- Underground Museum: The underground museum houses exhibits on the history, culture, and art of the region.
- Monastery Life: Visitors can learn about the daily life and traditions of monks who once lived in the monasteries.
7. Chapel on the Rocks
A small chapel built on a large rock formation, accessible only by boat or walking along a narrow path.
- Unique Location: The chapel's location on a rock formation provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Historical Significance: The chapel has historical significance as it was built in the early 20th century by a local monk.
- Remote Location: Reaching the chapel requires some effort, making the journey and arrival all the more rewarding.
8. Paleontology Museum of Kemerovo
A museum dedicated to the study of fossils and prehistoric life, featuring a collection of dinosaur bones and other ancient creatures.
- Dinosaur Bones: The museum houses a variety of dinosaur bones, providing insight into these prehistoric creatures.
- Prehistoric Creatures: Visitors can learn about other ancient creatures that once roamed the earth and swam in the seas.
- Interactive Exhibits: Interactive exhibits allow visitors to get hands-on experience with fossils, making learning fun and engaging.
9. Electro Mineral Water Spring
A natural mineral water spring believed to have healing properties, surrounded by lush greenery and walking paths.
- Healing Properties: The water is believed to have healing properties, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- Natural Environment: The spring is surrounded by a beautiful natural environment, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
- Walking Paths: Walking paths lead visitors through the surrounding greenery, providing opportunities for exercise and exploration.
10. Kemerovo Zoo
A zoo featuring a variety of animals, including exotic species not found in many other zoos.
- Exotic Species: The zoo houses a variety of exotic species not commonly found in other zoos, making it an exciting destination.
- Spacious Enclosures: The animals are housed in spacious enclosures that provide ample room for them to move and play.
- Educational Exhibits: Educational exhibits provide information on the animals, their habitats, and conservation efforts.
11. Stalin's Car Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of Soviet leaders, with a collection of vehicles used by Joseph Stalin and other notable figures.
- Historical Vehicles: The museum houses a collection of historical vehicles, providing insight into the lives of Soviet leaders.
- Personal Belongings: Visitors can see personal belongings and artifacts related to Stalin and other notable figures.
- Interactive Exhibits: Interactive exhibits offer a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to learn about the history of the Soviet Union.
12. Pearl Spa Complex
A spa complex featuring a variety of treatments and services, including a salt room, sauna, and swimming pool.
- Salt Room: The salt room helps to improve respiratory health and reduce stress levels.
- Sauna and Pool: The sauna and pool provide opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Treatments and Services: A wide range of treatments and services are available, catering to different needs and preferences.
13. Bear Sanctuary Novosibirsk
A sanctuary for rescued brown bears, providing a safe and comfortable environment for them to live.
- Rescue Efforts: The sanctuary provides a safe haven for brown bears that have been rescued from poor living conditions.
- Spacious Enclosures: The bears are housed in spacious enclosures, providing ample room to move and play.
- Educational Programs: Educational programs help visitors learn about the challenges brown bears face and conservation efforts.
14. Rock City
A series of rock formations in the shape of castles, towers, and other structures, created by erosion over thousands of years.
- Natural Formations: The unique rock formations were created naturally by erosion over thousands of years.
- Scenic Hikes: Visitors can explore the area on scenic hiking trails, taking in the stunning views.
- Photography Opportunities: The rock formations provide numerous photography opportunities for visitors to capture memories.
15. Kemerovo Circus
A circus featuring acrobats, clowns, and other performers, providing entertainment for the whole family.
- Acrobatic Performances: The acrobatic performances showcase incredible skill and athleticism.
- Clown Acts: Clown acts provide humor and lighthearted entertainment for the audience.
- Interactive Shows: Some shows allow audience participation, creating a more immersive experience.